Cotswold's palm trees spark neighbourly row on Awkward Hill

Carmelo GarciaLocal Democracy Reporting Service

LDRS Two large palm trees, the trunks of which are entirely covered with fairy lights, stick out above a traditional stone wall. The pointed roof of the house can be seen jutting above the wall. LDRS

The palm trees have been in place for more than 20 years

“Out of place” palm trees covered in fairy lights have become the centre of a planning row on “England’s prettiest street”.

The windmill palms at Rosemary Cottage on Awkward Hill have become the focus of complaints from neighbours after years of construction work.

Some residents say the work on the stone property in the Cotswolds village of Bibury is wrecking the area that includes Hawkers Hill and Arlington Row, often cited the most beautiful street in England.

Villagers say they are “horrified” by the damage that has been done and the impact the works are having on their lives since works at a grade II-listed cottage began in 2023. The applicant and their architect have declined to comment.

The latest plans for Rosemary Cottage Hill include the stripping and replacement of Cotswold stone slate roof tiles as well as adding insulation to a utility room, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

There are also plans for an oak conservatory and stone summerhouse, while there have been previous proposals for an underground garage.

LDRS Two large palm trees, the trunks of which are entirely covered with fairy lights, stick out above a traditional stone wall. The picture is taken at dusk, showing off the brightness of the lights. LDRS

One resident said she did not think “anyone with any sense could argue” the trees were of a local character

Gardening writer Victoria Summerley, who lives next door, said the trees had become particularly noticeable as surrounding plants had been removed, adding that tourists often comment on the trees as they pass.

She said: “We all have plants in our gardens which come from all over the world.

“However, to say that these trees are part of the history of Rosemary Cottage when everything else in this part of the garden – more or less – has been removed strikes me as a little disingenuous.

“I don’t think anyone with any sense could argue that two tall palm trees enhance or preserve the character of a three-bed cottage in the Cotswolds.”